An optical device for an automated temporization of diagnostic tools for medium voltage substation

This work describes a fibre optic device suitable for generating a trigger signal for a Medium Voltage substation monitoring system. It is based on the use of a low-cost transparent electro-optic ceramic for tracking electric field/voltage changes at the electric network frequency (50/60Hz). Results of tests carried out on a preliminary optical sensor, performed by means of a Voltage Calibrator, were in good agreement with the modelled sensor response to AC and DC voltages. This confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed model approach. Through simulation sensor parameters and layout were optimised for implementing a robust, low cost and easy installable optical device able to properly trigger a set of optical diagnostic tools for Medium Voltage switchboards.